Ohio University announced on Thursday that Lewatis McNeal will be the next vice provost for regional higher education and partnerships, effective Oct. 3.
McNeal will replace Nicole Pennington, who currently serves in the role. The announcement made by OU Executive Vice President and Provost, Elizabeth Sayrs, follows Pennington’s announcement to leave the role and return to the School of Nursing faculty.
McNeal has worked at the University of Arkansas since 2020 as the associate dean for administration and diversity and was an associate professor of public health at its college of education and health professions.
Prior to working at UA, McNeal served in various roles at other universities. He served as an associate dean, clinical associate professor of public health and as the “acting” dean of the college of education and human services at Northern Kentucky University. He also served as the assistant dean for administration, inclusive excellence and special projects at NKU.
At the University of Louisville, he earned a PhD in health promotion and behavioral sciences. He studied nutrition and dietetics at UA where he earned his bachelor's degree.
"Dr. McNeal will be a strong advocate for students and community partners throughout southern Ohio,” Sayrs said. “His knowledge and experience will benefit the faculty and staff on our regional campuses, and he will work closely with the Athens and regional campus deans to create innovative programs to meet the educational needs of our region.”
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